Skip to Main Content

Five trends in multifamily housing design

Multifamily housing is popular in both urban and rural areas, making it one of the most in-demand residential development sectors right now. Given that we specialize in vinyl windows and doors for multifamily housing units, we’re particularly invested in the space. Read on to learn what multifamily housing is, the benefits of multifamily housing development, and five trends in multifamily housing design.

What are the benefits of investing in multifamily housing development?

There continues to be significant interest in building new multifamily housing. This is because as Stratfolio points out, multifamily housing has a reasonable acquisition cost, creates increased cash flow and tax breaks, and can be easier to manage than larger apartment complexes or individual units spread throughout a metro area.

What are the major trends in multifamily housing design?

Here are five trends we’re seeing in multifamily housing design right now.

Design with “work from home” in mind. The pandemic changed a lot about how people live and work, with many still working part or all of their workday from home. This means that incorporating “work from home” touches into multifamily dwellings has gotten more important. Instead of arches separating living spaces, perhaps there are doors to close off a work room. Charging stations become the norm. And with more and more people storing costly technologies and sensitive information at home, security is of critical concern. Designers can help by incorporating high-quality door keypads, windows with multiple locking points such as with our Endurance Casement/Awning Window Series, and smart security features.

Smart features. Speaking of smart, another trend in multifamily housing design is incorporating more and more smart features in both individual family units and common spaces. Designers are adding smart everything, from elevators to refrigerators to security and lighting systems—features that improve convenience, security, and utility costs for the end user.

Environmentally conscious design. Particularly after the year we’ve had, people are wanting their homes to be as healthy and environmentally friendly as possible. Spaces that incorporate friendly design that protects from the elements and taxes utilities as little as possible will be popular. For example, incorporating our Endurance Windows, which offer fusion welded corners and warm, condensation resistant vinyl frames, helps keep the elements out and the heating bills down.

Greater demand for quality. Multifamily dwellings may be an affordable way to families to enter the housing market or own a home in a city with a high cost of living, but homeowners want quality and artistry in finishes, fixtures, and features.

Bring the outside in. People are spending more and more time at home—and, according to a recent study by Outdoor Foundation, less time outside. In fact, the study said that nearly half of the U.S. population doesn’t participate in any outdoor recreation at all. Maybe that’s why trending interior design is bringing the outside in, featuring furniture made from raw woods, plenty of greens, and a plethora of plants. Designers can help multifamily homeowners connect with nature by incorporating walls of windows and view-facing swinging patio doors like our Envision Door Series, inviting them to get outside—or at least admire it from the living room.

To speak with a VPI representative about windows or doors for your multifamily housing project, contact us.